Welcoming Spring with TCM: A Seasonal Wellness Workshop by May Roca

On 15th February 2025, the charming Celler 9+ in La Nou de Gaia (Tarragona) became the setting for a unique community event—“Obre’t a la Primavera. Acupuntura estacional”, a seasonal acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) workshop led by May Roca, a 4th-year TCM student at the European Institute of Integrative Health Sciences (EIIHS).

With 22 eager participants (a full house!), the event provided an engaging and interactive exploration of how to welcome Spring in alignment with TCM principles. As the seasons shift, so do our bodies, emotions, and energy levels. This workshop focused on understanding these changes and learning how to adjust our habits, diet, lifestyle, and energy flow to embrace the expansive, creative energy of Spring.

Exploring the Wisdom of Spring in TCM

TCM views Spring as a time of growth, renewal, and free-flowing energy, closely associated with the Wood element, the Liver, and the principle of expansion. Through a combination of theory, discussion, reflection, and hands-on practice, participants gained insights into fundamental TCM concepts such as:

🌿 Qi (vital energy) and its movement☯️ The dynamic balance of Yin & Yang🌀 The Five Elements and their seasonal influences🌱 Spring-specific self-care, including diet, movement, and acupuncture points

The idea of flowing through the seasons by making conscious adjustments—whether in nutrition, daily routines, or emotional expression—was a key theme throughout the session. Participants explored how Spring encourages creativity, movement, and detoxification, aligning with the Liver’s role in TCM.

A Community Coming Together for Growth & Reflection

The workshop wasn’t just about learning—it was about experiencing. Interactive exercises allowed participants to connect with their energy, reflect on their personal seasonal transitions, and take home practical tools to integrate into daily life.

Lively discussions, shared insights, and a spirit of curiosity made the event a true exchange between the participants and the wisdom of TCM. And of course, there was homework!—simple yet powerful practices to continue the seasonal transition with awareness.

Looking Ahead: Summer Awaits!

With such a fantastic response and engaged participation, this Spring workshop is just the beginning! Plans are already underway for a Summer edition, diving into the Fire element, Heart energy, and seasonal balance in the warmer months.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended, shared, and made this event a success! It’s inspiring to see the community come together to explore natural, integrative approaches to health and well-being.

🌿 Stay tuned for the next seasonal workshop—Summer is calling! ☀️